engleski

Effect of rootstock on growth dynamics and yield components ofearly watermelon cultivars

Hybrid cultivars of watermelon have high yield potential, nutritional and functional value. However, many are sensitive to abiotic stress due to drought/excessive soil-water content, salinity and low/high temperatures, as well as are extremely susceptible to soilborne disease and nematodes. To avoid these risks, modern watermelon production regularly includes grafted seedlings. An appropriate combination of scion and rootstock can also have a positive effect on the yield and quality of the fruit. The aim of the study was to determine the compatibility of early hybrid cultivars of watermelon 'Lady' and 'Early Samantha' with rootstocks of different origins 'Emphasis' (Lagenaria siceraria) and 'Vitalley' (Cucurbita maxima × C. moschata), based on the effect of grafting on vegetative growth and marketable yield. The field trial was conducted at Prkovci (N45°12'52", E18°36'38" ; Vukovarsko-srijemska county, Croatia) during 2018, according to a random block design in four replications. Vegetative growth parameters (length, diameter and number of leaves of the main vine, number of secondary vines) were monitored during five weeks after planting and dynamics of vegetative growth was expressed by the relative growth rate (RGR). The number and weight of marketable and non-marketable fruits were determined during the harvest. The length, diameter and number of leaves of the main vine were more affected by the rootstock than scion. Higher RGR of the main vine length of all scion/rootstock combinations at the beginning of growing period indicates a faster vegetative growth of younger plants. Both cultivars grafted on rootstock 'Emphasis' formed secondary vines earlier and had more marketable fruits with higher sugar content than on rootstock 'Vitalley'. The number and weight of marketable fruits were significantly affected by scion. The conducted research established compatibility between tested scions and rootstocks because all combinations achieved satisfying marketable yield in range from 85.2 t ha-1 ('Early Samantha'×'Vitalley') to 105.5 t ha-1 ('Lady'×'Emphasis').

Citrullus lanatus, Lagenaria siceraria, Cucurbita maxima × Cucurbita moschata, main and secondary vines, relative growth rate

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